Concert spotlights Judaism's diversity

Congo drums added an exotic flavor. The African-American chorus' infectious rendition reflected centuries of the Jewish people's wanderings through many lands and diverse cultures and sent the female cantors' feet a-tapping. Lining the sanctuary while the black group performed, members of the Women Cantors' Network swayed back and forth to the syncopated prayer offerings.

The performers shared a keen sense of music and history that inspired many of the women to become cantors.

That link is also why Mannasseh chooses to sing with the Beth Shalom chorus. As an African-American, she is cognizant of how much of her family's history was obliterated by slavery. A Jew by choice, she feels a connection to generations stretching back to biblical times when she sings ancient prayers.

"It's a feeling of attachment to centuries of suffering and survival, persecution and joy," Mannasseh said.